Burdock root
Also called: Gobo, Arctium lappa
A root traditionally used as a cleansing herb for the skin and liver, and eaten as a vegetable in Japan. Research in people is limited.
Supplements can interact with medications and aren't right for everyone, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding, or with a chronic condition. Ask your provider before you start.
Studied for
- Skin conditions such as acne and eczema (traditional use)
- Liver support (traditional use)
- Digestion (it contains inulin, a prebiotic fiber)
Found naturally in
- Burdock root (gobo) in Japanese cooking
Label red flags
- Unknown sourcing. Burdock has been contaminated with toxic belladonna root, so choose a tested brand.
Check with a provider
- Allergy to ragweed, daisies, marigolds, or related plants
- Taking diabetes medicine (it may lower blood sugar)
- Taking diuretics or blood thinners (it may add to their effects, though evidence is limited)
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding: avoid it
Usually found in skin support formulas, liver and detox teas, traditional herbal blends. Browse Dr. Lesher's dispensary
Parts of the body it affects
Explore what each area does and the conditions that can affect it.
Skin
Your skin is your largest organ and a major immune barrier. Rashes, patches, and color changes are often the first visible signs of an autoimmune condition.
Liver
Your liver filters your blood, processes hormones and medicines, and makes bile to digest fat.
Illustrations: Servier Medical Art, CC BY 4.0
Ready to find the root cause?
Dr. Lesher is a Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on autoimmune and chronic conditions in women. Since 2020, she's helped hundreds of patients stop managing symptoms and start healing.